Statement on 2012-13 State Budget

Albany, N.Y. – The New York State Senate has passed the 2012-2013 State Budget. State Senator Michael H. Ranzenhofer has issued the following statement:

“Today, for the second time since 1983, the State Senate has passed the State Budget ahead of the April 1st deadline. The 2012-2013 State Budget is a fiscally responsible plan that closes a budget deficit by cutting spending and without raising taxes. For the second time in 15 years, and for the second consecutive year, overall spending has been reduced. The budget shrinks the size of State government once again by eliminating 25 repetitive, inactive boards and commissions and consolidating various departments.

Most importantly, many of the budget’s provisions focus on creating jobs and strengthening Western New York’s economy. The budget plan initiates the NY Works program to rebuild the State’s roads, highways and bridges, includes a second round of $500 million in competitive grants for Regional Economic Development Councils, and creates new tax credits to encourage the private sector to create jobs.

After years of late budgets, packed with toxic tax increases and irresponsible spending spikes, today’s actions are another sign that Albany is functioning again for the people. As the legislative session continues, I look forward to keep Albany working for the people and continuing to build upon this momentum.”